Children given a voice in climate change
ENVIRONMENT, Climate, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister, Mangaliso Ndlovu, has said Government is committed to an inclusive process of gathering views from all stakeholders on climate change issues.
These include children and young people.
Speaking at a High Level Dialogue on Children, Climate and the Environment, Minister Ndlovu said Government recognises that children are the most vulnerable to climate shocks such as floods, droughts, heatwaves and cyclones.
“The estimated 6.5 million children in Zimbabwe are at risk from the impact of climate-induced emergencies.
“Many children have been affected by the climate crisis, and many have faced trauma from climate events." He added:
“We all remember Cyclone Idai in 2019 that left a trail of deaths, destruction of infrastructure including homes, schools and health facilities.
“Over the years, we have had events that have taken lives, including now veld fires that are robbing children of their parents and guardians.
“The world today is grappling with a triple crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution with huge consequences on health and wellbeing for all people.”
He said children and young people were among the most vulnerable to diseases which become more widespread because of climate change.
Infrastructure, which is important for service delivery, including for food and medicines, is also destroyed during extreme climate events.
“Food insecurity and nutritional deprivations can have lifelong impacts, particularly for the most vulnerable and poor.
“Droughts and changing rainfall patterns have the potential to destroy livelihoods, drive migration and conflict, and cripple opportunities for children and youth.
“Droughts and aggravated biodiversity loss go hand-in-hand.
“Natural flora and fauna, including wild plant foods, fruits and herbs that are used by local communities, are fast disappearing
“Children and young people's education is disrupted as some fail to cross flooded rivers, and school infrastructure is damaged by cyclones and strong winds.